What Oil Filter Do You Need for an Audi A4?

The correct oil filter for an Audi A4 depends on model year, engine type (petrol vs. diesel, displacement, and turbo configuration), and sometimes production date; for most modern A4s (B8, B9), popular OEM filter part numbers include 06L 115 562, 06L 115 466, and 03N 115 562, but owners should confirm via VIN or a trusted parts catalog before purchase.

Why the “Right” Oil Filter for an Audi A4 Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

The Audi A4 has been produced across multiple generations, each offering a range of engines and regional variations. This means there is no single universal oil filter that fits all A4s. Engine codes, emissions standards (e.g., EU vs. U.S.), and slight hardware updates over the years can change which filter is correct. Choosing the wrong filter can cause leaks, poor filtration, or even engine damage, so identification by model year, engine, and VIN is essential.

Key Factors That Determine the Correct Oil Filter

Before selecting an oil filter for an Audi A4, it is critical to understand the main variables that dictate compatibility. These factors help narrow down the correct OEM part number and safe aftermarket alternatives.

• Model year and generation (B5, B6, B7, B8, B9): Each generation introduced new engine families and updated filter designs.
• Engine displacement and type: 1.4 TFSI, 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI, and others often use different filters.
• Fuel type: Petrol (gasoline) and diesel A4s commonly use different filter housings and elements.
• Engine code: Codes such as EA888 (2.0 TFSI) or specific TDI codes help pinpoint the exact filter.
• Production date and market: Mid-cycle updates and regional variants can change the required part.
• Filter design: Some A4s use spin-on “can” filters, others use drop-in cartridge elements in a permanent housing.

Taken together, these factors mean that two A4s with the same displacement but different years or markets may require completely different oil filter part numbers, making precise identification necessary rather than relying on a generic size match.

Common Oil Filter Part Numbers for Popular Audi A4 Generations

While the exact filter for an Audi A4 should always be confirmed against the VIN or a reliable catalog, some part numbers frequently appear across commonly owned generations. The following overview provides a reference point, not a substitute for verification.

Audi A4 B9 (2016–present, including many 2.0 TFSI / 2.0 TDI models)

The B9 A4 uses newer EA888 petrol engines and updated diesel units, many of which rely on cartridge-style filters. These filters are designed to work with extended oil-change intervals and synthetic oils that meet VW 504.00/507.00 specifications.

• Common OEM filter elements (petrol & many diesel variants):
  

  • 06L 115 562 – Widely used on B9 2.0 TFSI engines; cartridge-type filter.
  • 06L 115 466 – Another frequent part number for B9 2.0 TFSI, depending on engine code and production date.
  • 03N 115 562 – Used in certain TFSI/TDI applications; confirm against engine code.

• Typical high-quality equivalents:
  

  • MANN-FILTER HU 6002 z / HU 7020 z (depending on OEM reference)
  • Mahle / Knecht OX series (e.g., OX 982D, specific to OEM cross-ref)
  • BOSCH and Hengst filters cross-referenced to the above OEM numbers

• Housing design: Most are drop-in cartridges inside a plastic or metal housing that is not replaced, only the element and O-ring are.

For the B9 generation, small changes between 2.0 TFSI engine variants and regional packages make it essential to match the filter to the car’s VIN or exact OEM spec rather than guessing based on displacement alone.

Audi A4 B8 (2008–2016, including 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI, 3.2 FSI, 3.0 TDI and others)

The B8 generation spans many engines, from smaller turbocharged petrol units to larger V6 petrol and diesel options, and the oil filter varies substantially across these configurations.

• Common petrol (e.g., 1.8 TFSI / 2.0 TFSI EA888):
  

  • 06D 115 562 – Early and some mid-cycle petrol engines.
  • 06D 115 408 – Used on certain 1.8/2.0 TFSI variants.

• Diesel (e.g., 2.0 TDI, some 3.0 TDI variants):
  

  • 03L 115 562 – Very common on 2.0 TDI engines of the era.
  • 057 115 561M / 057 115 561K – Typical for some 3.0 TDI V6 engines.

• Aftermarket references:
  

  • MANN-FILTER HU 719/7 X, HU 719/8 X or similar for many 2.0 TFSI / TDI engines.
  • Mahle OX 388D, OX 388/2D and related numbers for common B8 engines.

• Filter type: Predominantly cartridge filters, with specific O-ring kits required for the housing cap.

Because the B8 platform covers a long production run and multiple engine revisions, it is particularly risky to assume fitment based on engine size without checking the exact engine code and OEM part number.

Older Generations (B7, B6, B5) and Special Engines

Earlier generations of the Audi A4, including those with naturally aspirated petrol engines and older TDI units, frequently use spin-on canister filters rather than the modern cartridge style. These filters may look similar externally but differ in thread pitch, height, and bypass valve tuning.

• B7 A4 (2004–2008):
  

  • Common OEM numbers include 06D 115 561B, 06A 115 561B for 2.0T petrol engines (often spin-on cans).
  • Diesels like the 1.9 TDI / early 2.0 TDI use filters around 045 115 389 family.

• B6/B5 A4 (1990s–early 2000s):
  

  • 1.8T and 2.8 V6 engines often rely on filters under the 06A 115 561 series.
  • 1.9 TDI engines frequently use 074 115 562 and related part numbers.

• Performance models (S4/RS4):
  

  • High-output engines (e.g., V6/V8 biturbo, FSI) may use larger or higher-capacity filters unique to those models.

Owners of older A4s or performance variants cannot safely rely on generic “Audi A4” fitment charts; they must cross-check engine code and part number, as the cost of error is higher on these aging or high-performance powertrains.

How to Identify the Correct Oil Filter for Your Specific Audi A4

Given that Audi A4 oil filter selection depends on multiple technical variables, using systematic verification methods is the safest way to avoid mistakes. The following approaches are the most reliable.

1. Use the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Enter the VIN into an official Audi dealer system or a reputable online parts catalog to retrieve the exact oil filter part number.
2. Check the owner’s manual and service booklet: Many manuals list the oil filter specification or the OEM reference number, especially if factory service schedules are documented.
3. Consult a trusted online parts catalog: Sites like official brand catalogs (MANN, Mahle, Bosch, Hengst) allow lookup by car make, model, year, and engine code.
4. Read the existing filter’s markings: If the current filter is believed to be correct, note the OEM or aftermarket brand and part number printed or stamped on it.
5. Ask an Audi dealer or specialist workshop: Provide your registration number and VIN; they can confirm the exact part and any superseded numbers.
6. Verify engine code: For borderline cases, the engine code (e.g., CNCD, CNHA, EA888 gen 3 designations) can be cross-referenced with Audi electronic parts catalog (ETKA or similar).

Combining VIN-based lookup with a visual inspection of the existing filter or housing offers the highest confidence that the replacement part will match both physically and in performance characteristics.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Oil Filters for an Audi A4

Once the correct OEM part number is known, A4 owners can decide whether to buy a genuine Audi/VW filter or a high-quality aftermarket equivalent. The decision involves cost, availability, and tolerance for risk.

• OEM (Genuine Audi/VW branded):
  

  • Ensures precise fit and meets or exceeds Audi’s specifications for filtration, bypass pressure, and durability.
  • Often more expensive but reduces disputes during warranty or goodwill claims.

• Premium aftermarket (MANN, Mahle, Hengst, Bosch, etc.):
  

  • Many of these brands are original equipment suppliers to Audi and use the same or very similar designs and media.
  • Typically offer strong value with comparable performance at lower cost.

• Budget/unknown brands:
  

  • May skimp on filter media quality, sealing surfaces, and bypass valve calibration.
  • Risk of poor filtration, early clogging, leaking, or housing damage is higher.

• Service-interval considerations:
  

  • Long-life service intervals (up to 15,000–30,000 km / 10,000–18,000 miles in some markets) demand high-quality filters.
  • If you change oil more frequently than specified, quality is still important, but the filter spends less time in service.

For most Audi A4 owners, a genuine OEM filter or a premium aftermarket unit from a reputable brand that directly cross-references to the Audi part number provides the best balance of safety, performance, and cost.

Practical Tips When Replacing an Audi A4 Oil Filter

Selecting the right part is only half the task; proper installation ensures that the filter performs as designed and avoids leaks or startup starvation. Several best practices apply across most generations of the A4.

• Replace all O-rings and seals supplied with the filter: Never reuse old O-rings, as they may harden, flatten, or crack, causing leaks.
• Lightly oil the new O-ring(s): A thin film of fresh engine oil helps the seal seat correctly and prevents tearing during installation.
• Observe the specified torque: Over-tightening the housing cap or spin-on filter can damage threads or deform seals; under-tightening risks leakage.
• Confirm correct orientation of cartridge elements: Some filters will not seal or flow correctly if installed upside down or not fully seated.
• Check for leaks after startup: Run the engine for a few minutes, then inspect around the filter housing and sump area for drips or seepage.
• Use the correct oil spec together with the filter: For most modern A4s (especially with DPF), oil must meet VW 504.00/507.00 or other specified VW standards.

Careful installation, combined with the correct part and appropriate oil, extends engine life and reduces the likelihood of costly lubrication-related problems in the A4’s often complex turbocharged powertrains.

Summary

The “right” oil filter for an Audi A4 is not a single universal part but depends on the car’s generation, engine type, fuel, production date, and sometimes region. Common modern A4s (B8/B9) typically use OEM filter part numbers such as 06L 115 562, 06L 115 466, 03N 115 562, 03L 115 562, and related references, with high-quality equivalents available from brands like MANN, Mahle, Bosch, and Hengst. To avoid mistakes, owners should always verify compatibility using the VIN, engine code, and a reliable parts catalog or dealer lookup, then select either a genuine Audi/VW filter or a reputable OEM-equivalent brand and follow proper installation practices.